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Barcelona playmaker Xavi is reported to have signed a three-year deal with Qatari club Al Sadd with an option to extend his contract by one year. The legendary central midfielder has been linked with a move to several Middle Eastern and MLS sides, but has chosen to leave his childhood club for a move to Qatari club Al Sadd, where he is reported to earn €10 million a season.
According to AS, the Qatari side wanted the Barcelona legend to fill the void left by another Spanish legend Raul Gonzalez, who played for them from 2012-2014. The 35-year-old will be part of the Al Sadd’s first team as well as an advisor for Aspire Academy, which is training players to compete for the Qatar World Cup in 2022. It is also reported that Xavi will study for his coaching badges while in the country.
Xavi holds the record for most number of appearances for Barcelona (751), having won seven La Liga’s, three Champions leagues, two FIFA Club World Cup and two Copa del Rey’s. He also retired from international football following 2014 FIFA World Cup after Spain were eliminated from group stage and has one World Cup and two European Championships to his name.
Barcelona and Al-Sadd are yet to make an official announcement on the reports.
